Arsenal turn down chance to sign Borussia Dortmund star Manuel Akanji | Soccer

The 26-year-old defender was a regular in Dortmund last season and made 36 appearances in all competitions.

The Gunners are looking for another centre-back to bolster their defense ahead of their Europa League return next season.

According to The Sun, Akanji has been told he can leave Dortmund and his representatives are planning a move to Arsenal.

However, the report went on to say that despite being available for just £21m, the Swiss star is unlikely to move to the Emirates as Mikel Arteta seeks a left-footed centre-back to act as cover for Gabriel Magalhaes.

The north Londoners already have Ben White and Rob Holding on the right side of central defense and have a strong position at depth with the return of William Saliba from his loan at Marseille.

Meanwhile, Pablo Mari is reportedly close to an exit on a permanent deal with Udinese, increasing Arteta’s need for a left-footed defender.

But the Spaniard will have to manage his transfer kitty this summer, with a new striker, central midfielder and left-back also said to be on his list of targets.

Last month Arteta hinted that he will aim to be cautious in the market due to the club’s financial situation.

He said: “We will have certain resources, not unlimited resources, some resources. And with our resources we have to play and do what we have to do in the best possible way.

“We don’t know what the rest will have, but of course it will be a challenge because now it’s not a top three but a top eight, but that’s why we have to find a way to repeat what we did last summer to have .’

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